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Classic Island Tour of Sri Lanka

16 days from £8,745 for 2023 per person

Our classic tour of Sri Lanka is the perfect introduction to this beautiful country and ticks all the boxes for a first-time visitor. This in-depth tour encompasses the Cultural Triangle of the north, the hill country town of Kandy and lush tea plantations, thrilling wildlife experiences in Yala National Park, the golden sands of the southern coast and the historical town of Galle.

Begin with the highlights of the Cultural Triangle in the north, including the sacred city of  Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 4th century BC cradle of Buddhism, the exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, and the picturesque town of Kandy with its wonderful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, nicknamed the ‘Kew of Kandy’, and the famous Temple of the Tooth.

Take a leisurely route through the centre of the island, meandering up to the High Country and relax on a charming tea plantation.The 145-year old Thotalagala is one of our favourites and gives travellers a luxury taste of life on a tea estate. Driving further south into the lush Sri Lankan jungle visit Yala National Park for some of the best wildlife and birdlife experiences in Asia.

Driving down to the coast take the coastal road due west, stopping at Weligama for some relaxation and a chance to soak up the Sri Lankan sun. The historical fort of Galle makes for a fantastic stop, brimming with boutique cafes and galleries. The final stop of this tour will be a day spend sightseeing and shopping in the exciting city of Colombo.

This is purely a suggested itinerary, it can be booked as it is or used as a starting point for creating your own luxury tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka. If you'd like to see similar tours, take a look at our favourite Epic Journeys and Family Holidays, as well as our Beach HolidaysActive Trips, and Wildlife & Safari in Asia collections.


Itinerary details

16 days from £8,745 for 2023 per person

SRI LANKA - 1 Buddha SRI LANKA - 1 Buddha
Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 4 Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 4
SRI LANKA - 1 Polonarruwa 3 SRI LANKA - 1 Polonarruwa 3
Tea Trails 3 Tea Trails 3
Thotalagala.jpg Thotalagala.jpg
Thotalagala Haputale Sri Lanka 5 Thotalagala Haputale Sri Lanka 5
Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 5 Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 5
Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 3 Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 3
Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 11 Sri Lanka Louisa FAM 2014 11
SRI LANKA - Amanwella.JPG SRI LANKA - Amanwella.JPG
SRI LANKA - Galle Fort Overhead 2 SRI LANKA - Galle Fort Overhead 2
Sri Lanka - shopping.jpg Sri Lanka - shopping.jpg
Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran

Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India

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